Milestones on the Journey to Packaging Circularity in the Chinese Mainland

At Swire Coca-Cola, we are passionately committed to fostering a circular economy for our packaging. Our goal is to ensure that by 2030, at least 50% of the materials used in our bottles and cans come from recycled sources. This initiative not only diverts valuable resources from landfills but also significantly reduces our carbon footprint, as packaging contributes approximately 40% of Swire Coca-Cola's total greenhouse gas emissions.

Over the past four years, we have embarked on a transformative journey by collaborating with various stakeholders to promote the acceptance of recycled aluminium in food contact packaging across the Chinese Mainland. Let's delve into the three pivotal milestones that have marked our path to a greener future.

2021

Formation of a Cross-Industry Working Group
In 2021, we took a significant step by joining forces with the China National Research Institute of Food & Fermentation Industries, alongside nine beverage brands and twelve suppliers. Together, a cross-industry working group was established, focusing on the "Food-Grade Application of Recycled Aluminium". This initiative aimed to standardise the use of recycled metals in food packaging, laying the foundation for a more sustainable future.

2022

Research on Aluminium Can Recycling and Safety
In 2022, a research project titled: "Feasibility of Primary Recycling of Aluminium Cans in the Food Industry and Key Technologies in the Industry Chain" was launched. Developed in collaboration with the China National Research Institute of Food & Fermentation Industries, this project earned the "Second Prize in Science and Technology" from the China National Food Industry Association, underscoring its importance in promoting safety and sustainability in the industry.

2023

Recognition of the Proposed Quality Standard
In 2023, the National Centre for Food Safety Risk Assessment recognised the quality standard proposed by the cross-industry working group, namely "Recycled Aluminium Alloy Sheets and Containers for Food Contact" (T/CNLIC0091-2023). This comprehensive quality standard includes crucial specifications, testing, and inspection methods, and guidelines for product labelling, packaging, transportation, and quality certification. This unified framework enables companies within the metal packaging value chain to effectively manage the use of recycled metals.

2024

Official Statement on the Use of Recycled Aluminium in Food Packaging
In August 2024, the National Health Commission stated that recycled aluminium can be used for producing food contact packaging, such as beverage cans, provided it meets the relevant standards. Considering we utilised over 40,000 tonnes of aluminium in the Chinese Mainland last year, this initiative is crucial in helping us meet our science-based targets.

These milestones are more than just achievements; they are stepping stones towards a greener, more sustainable future. At Swire Coca-Cola, we remain dedicated to our mission; turning ambition into action, and paving the way for a circular economy.

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This project stems from Swire Coca-Cola's long-standing commitment and leadership in sustainability, embodying the leadership's call for "new responsibilities and new actions." In a challenging environment, the proactive spirit and resilience of Swire employees have brought about transformation in the industry, continually advancing towards ecological civilization. I am grateful to all partners for their contributions to this project, and I take great pride in it.

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— Angela Guo - Procurement Director - Closed-loop Supply Chain